Thomas Lawson
I write plain-language guides for MortgageDirectory about how home purchase loans, refinances, home equity products, and reverse mortgages work. My goal is to explain the basics clearly, from principal, interest, term, and escrow to down payments, PMI, closing costs, and how to read a Loan Estimate. I also help readers get the most out of our payment calculator so they can see how taxes, insurance, PMI, and HOA dues fit into a monthly payment. This site is not a lender, broker, or quote service, so I focus on education, not advice or offers. I stick to explaining how these loans work so you can walk into a conversation with a lender better prepared.
Articles by Thomas Lawson
Nov 3, 2026 · HELOC, Home Equity Loans
HELOC Repayment Phase: What Homeowners Need to Know
Understand what the HELOC repayment phase is, how it differs from the draw period, and options to manage higher payments after draw ends.
Oct 18, 2026 · Reverse Mortgages, Retirement Planning
Reverse Mortgage Pros and Cons for Retirees: A 2026 Guide
Reverse mortgage pros and cons for retirees explained: access home equity without monthly payments, but understand fees, interest accrual, and heir impact.
Oct 16, 2026 · Mortgage Basics, Mortgage Education
How a Mortgage Works: Principal, Interest, Term, Escrow
Understand how a mortgage works: principal, interest, term, and escrow explained in plain language so you can compare offers and avoid surprise bills.
Oct 13, 2026 · Mortgage Calculators, Mortgage Basics
How to Use a Mortgage Payment Calculator Correctly
A mortgage payment calculator shows your true monthly cost when you include taxes, insurance, and fees. Here is how to enter inputs and read the results.
Oct 10, 2026 · Reverse Mortgages, Mortgage Education
Reverse Mortgage Eligibility: Age, Equity, Counseling
Reverse mortgage eligibility requirements age equity counseling explained: learn the age minimum, how much equity you need, and what counseling covers.